9 NIGHTS/ 10 DAYS
TBD
1 Country
India (Kerala)
Routes covered
Kochi, Alleppey, Kumarakom, Thekkady, Varkala
Experience
Jewish Heritage Visits
Safari
Beach Sunsets
Indian Cooking Class
TBD
2.25% surcharge for credit card transactions
Trip Highlights
A Tour that allows you to keep Glatt Kosher and Daven with a minyan!
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Visit the historic Jewish Quarter and Synagogue
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Private Kerala backwaters cruise
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Explore traditional village life
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Walk through spice plantations and tea estates
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Enjoy a Periyar Lake safari
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Connect with the local Jewish community
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Relax along the cliff beaches
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Hands-on Indian Cooking Class
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Daven with a rare Indian Sefer Torah
Tentative Itinerary
Tuesday
December
Day 1: Kochi: Arrival & First Moments in Kerala
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Arrival at Cochin International Airport, where we are welcomed with traditional jasmine garlands.
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Transfer to our hotel in Fort Kochi, located near the historic Jewish Quarter.
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Time to settle in and rest after the journey.
Overnight: Kochi - Fragrant Nature
Wednesday
December
Day 2 Kochi – Jewish Heritage & Local Life
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We explore the historic Jewish Quarter of Kochi, including the famous Paradesi Synagogue and surrounding Jew Town.
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The day also includes a visit past the Jewish Cemetery, the Dutch Palace, and a walk toward the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets.
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In the evening, we attend a live Kathakali performance, a traditional South Indian dance combining storytelling and theater.
Overnight: Kochi - Fragrant Nature Hotel
Thursday
December
Day 3: Through the Backwaters – Journey to Kumarakom
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We begin with a visit to the Chendamangalam Synagogue, followed by a unique opportunity to daven with an Indian Sefer Torah.
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From there, we continue to Alleppey for a private backwaters day cruise, one of Kerala’s most distinctive experiences.
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Enjoy a Kosher lunch onboard, accompanied by live music, as we cruise through palm-lined waterways.
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Later, transfer to Kumarakom, set along the tranquil backwaters.
Overnight: Kumarakom - Rhythm Hotel
Friday
December
Day 4: Kumarakom – Village Life & Shabbat by the Water
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We begin with an optional yoga and meditation session.
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We then explore Vaikom Village, where we experience daily life through activities such as coconut plucking, coir making, pottery, and handloom weaving, along with a traditional toddy-making demonstration.
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Along the way, we visit the Vaikom Shiva Temple (exterior visit) and enjoy a local break with chai and banana fritters.
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In the evening, we prepare for Shabbat with candle lighting, Mincha & Maariv, followed by a Kosher Shabbat dinner.
Overnight: Kumarakom - Rhythm Hotel
Shabbat
December
Day 5: Shabbat by the Backwaters
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A full Shabbat experience in a calm lakeside setting.
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Time for prayer, rest, and shared meals in a peaceful environment.
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In the evening, enjoy a cultural program with live music and classical Indian dance.
Overnight: Kumarakom - Rhythm Hotel
Sunday
December
Day 6: From Backwaters to Spice Hills
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We travel inland to Thekkady (Periyar region), known for its spice plantations and forest landscapes.
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For those interested, there is an optional ATV ride through the surrounding landscape.
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We visit an organic spice plantation and learn about the region’s spices with a naturalist guide.
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The day also includes a visit to a tea estate with tastings.
Overnight: Thekkady - The Elephant Court Hotel
Monday
December
Day 7: Thekkady – Nature & Local Traditions
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We begin with a boat safari on Periyar Lake, offering views of wildlife and forest surroundings.
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Later, we experience local culture with a traditional sari dressing experience.
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In the evening, we attend a live performance of Kalaripayattu, one of India’s oldest martial arts.
Overnight: Thekkady - The Elephant Court Hotel
Tuesday
December
Day 9: Varkala – A Day to Slow Down
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A relaxed day to enjoy the coastal setting of Varkala.
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Options include a cliff walk, beach time, or an optional Ayurvedic massage.
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Later, we take part in a cooking class at Bet Halev, followed by dinner and a Shiur.
Overnight: Varkala - B’canti Beach Resort
Wednesday
December
Day 8: From the Hills to the Coast – Journey to Varkala
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A scenic drive brings us to Varkala, known for its dramatic cliffside beaches along the Arabian Sea.
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The evening is free to enjoy sunset views and the relaxed coastal atmosphere.
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We gather for dinner at Bet Halev, hosted by a unique traveling Jewish family often known as the “Jewish Nomads”, who open their home to travelers in different parts of the world. This is a rare opportunity to share a meal, hear their story, and experience a different kind of Jewish connection.
Overnight: Varkala - B’canti Beach Resort
Thursday
December
Day 10: A Final Morning in Kerala
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After breakfast, we transfer to Trivandrum International Airport for departure.
The journey concludes with a unique blend of nature, culture, and meaningful Kosher travel in South India.
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